Plans take step forward in improving major traffic route between Dewsbury, Batley and Tingley

The £6m Dewsbury–Batley–Tingley Sustainable Travel Corridor will see a series of bus, cycle and footway improvements introduced in the area to “reverse reliance on the private car.”

The plans went before West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Investment Committee yesterday, where members agreed to draw up a business case for the scheme.

Members were told that the work will include a range of improvements to the cycle network, including cycle lane provision and junction modifications to prioritise cyclists and pedestrians, as well as reconfiguration of the B6124/ A653 Junction.

It will be funded by the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund, and work is expected to be completed by September 2022.

A report to the Committee said: “The package will enhance the bus offer, improving bus journey times and reliability, and facilitating new services and higher frequencies. In addition, the scheme will transform the sustainable transport offer for pedestrians and cyclists, delivering new and improved active mode infrastructure, positively impacting air quality.

“It will also facilitate the delivery of local housing and employment developments as part of the North Kirklees Growth Zone.”

At the meeting Fiona Limb, Programme Manager, said: “The area faces challenges including an unreliable bus offer, poor access to bus stops and a lack of cycling and walking infrastructure.”

She said the Authority may need to reduce the number of parking spaces on some roads along the route.

Members agreed to progress the plans.